New research suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle changes.
